Jorge Enrique Rodríguez, a prominent independent journalist from Cuba, delivered a fierce rebuttal to statements made by Miguel Díaz-Canel, the Cuban leader, who suggested that certain groups might be inciting vandalism against state infrastructure. Rodríguez dismantled this claim with pointed irony, direct criticism, and a clear denunciation of the structural collapse within Cuba.
"There's no need to commit any acts of vandalism against state infrastructure. That would actually be helping you, considering that ALL state infrastructure has already fallen apart due to the usual consequences brought about by you three: Fidel, Raúl, and now you, my king," wrote Rodríguez on his social media profile.
In his post, Rodríguez challenged Díaz-Canel to name "at least three 'infrastructures' that you claim can withstand even a single tomato hit."
Decay Across the Board
Rodríguez listed examples of the country's dilapidation: "Schools are in decline. Daycares are in ruins. Hospitals are embarrassing. Factories are closed. Inns no longer exist. What were once iconic restaurants are now swarmed with flies. Shops are shuttered. Police stations are empty—yes, because the exodus is on the rise, and we know it." His response blended social denunciation with colloquial language rich in sarcasm and political critique.
"Are you afraid that a couple of sweet potato hits will be thrown at ETECSA?" he joked, referring to the state telecommunications company.
Rodríguez also recalled July 11, 2021, when the regime criminalized peaceful protests by accusing demonstrators of vandalism and sedition. "You showed your true colors on #11J when you fabricated the vandalism and sedition story. Stop threatening, stop inventing, and you can shove that death penalty in whichever orifice you prefer. Fear knocks on our door, but our courage refuses to open," Rodríguez declared.
Widespread Reactions: "You Can't Vandalize What's Already Vandalized"
The journalist's words sparked a wave of reactions among users who related to his denunciation. Many praised his straightforward tone, while others added their own reflections, reinforcing the idea that the so-called infrastructure the government protects is nothing but a collection of ruins.
"That infrastructure the Chubby Pinocchio talks about is a crumbling ruin," one user commented. "Communism is more vandalistic than the gangs," another added. "You can't vandalize what's already vandalized," someone else joked.
Another follower, mixing sarcasm with emojis, wrote, "Tomato hit… sweet potato hit? At the prices they're going for, they'll say they're weapons funded by the empire!"
Some joked about the term "Raulitín," used by the journalist to refer to Raúl Castro, while others applauded the closing of the message: "That ending was epic. 'Fear knocks on our door, but our courage refuses to open,'" celebrated a user, accompanying their comment with a flurry of applause and heart emojis.
A Sustained Critique of a Failing System
Rodríguez's post is part of a growing wave of critical voices inside and outside the island, not only pointing out the country's material state but also the official narrative that attempts to justify failure with threats, manipulation, and repression.
The journalist's message not only highlights the material failures of the Cuban state, but also its inability to maintain a credible narrative in the face of citizens' realities. "He's not any dumber because he doesn't practice..." Rodriguez quipped in the comments section, making it clear that his critique goes beyond sarcasm; it's a cry of exasperation and defiance.
Exploring the Impact of Criticism on Cuban Regime
What did Jorge Enrique Rodríguez criticize about Díaz-Canel?
Rodríguez criticized Díaz-Canel's claim that groups were promoting vandalism against state infrastructure, arguing that the infrastructure had already collapsed due to the regime's actions.
How did Rodríguez describe the state of Cuban infrastructure?
Rodríguez highlighted that schools, daycares, hospitals, and factories were in decay or closed, indicating a widespread collapse of infrastructure.
What was the reaction to Rodríguez's message?
His message resonated with many, sparking a wave of reactions from users who identified with his critique, using humor and sarcasm to further criticize the regime.